Agree with you. Some adjustment for the death of a parent or surgery seems reasonable. But death of a pet? (Any pet? A goldfish?). And surely if you are ill you sit at a later date. Apart from anything else, whilst the death of a parent/hospital apptmt can certainly be proved, the timing of Kitty's demise or that horrible stomach ache can't - and sadly some people (or their parents) will do anything to gain an advantage.
Fraid I agree on the retesting for dyspraxia/dyslexia although I know it must be a pain. But I also feel that there should be a standardised free testing system which is approved of by the exam authorities. Not everyone can afford the £4-500 for an EP report so some children with genuine disabilities are currently discriminated against.